Isaiah 51:1

CHAPTER LI

The prophet exhorts the children of Abraham to trust in the

Lord; and briefly, but beautifully, describes the great

blessedness which should be the consequence, 1-3.

Then, turning to the Gentiles, encourages them to look for a

portion in the same salvation, 4, 5;

the everlasting duration of which is majestically described, 6.

And as it is everlasting, so is it sure to the righteous,

notwithstanding all the machinations of their enemies, 7, 8.

The faithful, then, with exultation and joy, lift their voices,

reminding God of his wondrous works of old, which encourage

them to look now for the like glorious accomplishment of these

promises, 9-11.

In answer to this the Divinity is introduced comforting them

under their trials, and telling them that the deliverer was

already on his way to save and to establish them, 12-16.

On this the prophet turns to Jerusalem to comfort and

congratulate her on so joyful a prospect. She is represented,

by a bold image, as a person lying in the streets, under the

intoxicating effects of the cup of the Divine wrath, without a

single person from among her own people appointed to give her

consolation, and trodden under the feet of her enemies; but, in

the time allotted by the Divine providence, the cup of

trembling shall be taken out of her hand, and put into that of

her oppressors; and she shall drink it no more again for ever,

17-22.

NOTES ON CHAP. LI

Verse Isaiah 51:1. Ye that follow after righteousness] The people who, feeling the want of salvation, seek the Lord in order to be justified.

The rock] Abraham.

The hole of the pit] Sarah; as explained in Isaiah 51:2.